New Zealand secured their first-ever ODI series victory in India with a 41-run win over the hosts in the deciding third match at Indore.
The Black Caps posted a commanding 337-8 in 50 overs, powered by career-best knocks from Daryl Mitchell (137) and Glenn Phillips (106). Despite India being in early trouble at 58-3, the Mitchell-Phillips partnership of 219 runs off 188 balls shifted the momentum firmly in New Zealandβs favour.
India fought back through a brilliant Virat Kohli century (124) and a solid 53 from Reddy, but successive wickets from Zak Foulkes and tight bowling by Clarke (3-54) and Foulkes (3-77) curtailed the chase. The hosts were bowled out for 296 in 46 overs, handing New Zealand a 2-1 series victory.
Mitchellβs innings featured 15 fours and three sixes, marking a career-high ODI score, while Phillipsβ century helped stabilize the innings after early setbacks. New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell remained unbeaten on 28, contributing to the imposing total.
Kohli, playing only the 50-over format after retiring from Test and T20 internationals, struck 10 fours and three sixes, but India fell short despite his effort.
The two teams will next meet in a five-match T20 series starting 21 January, leading up to the T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February.
